If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and effortless to prepare, the Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. This vibrant recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a zesty, herb-packed cilantro pesto that brings brightness and richness in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish delivers both simplicity and sensational taste without any fuss. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating a perfectly balanced dish. From the fresh, green punch of cilantro to the creamy depth of Parmesan, every component brings its unique charm to the Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders: Choose fresh, high-quality tenders for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed): The star herb that makes the pesto lively and bright.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty undertone that complements the herbs perfectly.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Provides richness and helps bind the pesto ingredients smoothly.
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts: Bring a gentle crunch and deepen the pesto’s flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic: For that classic garlicky kick that rounds out the pesto.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Adds a fresh, tangy note that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle heat that balances the herbaceous pesto.
How to Make Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature ensures the chicken will bake perfectly—juicy on the inside with just the right amount of golden crispness on the outside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Blend the Cilantro Pesto
In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, toasted pine nuts or walnuts, garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend all these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This vibrant pesto is what really transforms the chicken tenders from ordinary to extraordinary by infusing them with bold flavors.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Pat your chicken tenders dry with paper towels—this step is essential for the pesto to cling beautifully. Place the tenders in a large bowl and pour the cilantro pesto over them. Toss everything together until each piece is fully coated with the luscious green pesto.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F to ensure they are juicy yet safely cooked through.
How to Serve Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little more chopped cilantro or some extra grated Parmesan on top for a fresh, inviting look. A wedge of lime on the side adds flair and lets everyone add a splash of citrus if they wish. These finishing touches make the dish look as tempting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders pair beautifully with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice. They also work wonderfully wrapped in a warm tortilla with some crunchy slaw to create a vibrant, flavorful meal everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve them as finger food at a casual gathering with small bowls of extra cilantro pesto for dipping. Or elevate the presentation by plating the tenders over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa, drizzled with an additional spoonful of pesto for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (and you just might), store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days and make a fantastic quick lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken tenders for up to 2 months. To do this, lay the coated tenders on a tray and freeze until firm before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. This keeps the pesto and chicken well-preserved and ready for an easy, future meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the chicken juicy and avoid drying it out. Alternatively, a quick microwave zap works just fine for busy days, although the oven method retains more of that fresh-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating in the pesto to achieve the best results.
Is it possible to make the cilantro pesto ahead of time?
Yes, the pesto can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld even more. Just give it a quick stir before tossing with the chicken.
Can I substitute other nuts in the pesto?
Definitely. While pine nuts and walnuts are traditional and add great texture, almonds, cashews, or even sunflower seeds can work well and add their own unique twist.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can finely chop the cilantro, garlic, and nuts by hand and then whisk everything together with olive oil, Parmesan, and lime juice to make a rustic version of this flavorful pesto.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild flavors and tender chicken tenders usually appeal to kids, especially when served with a favorite dipping sauce or wrapped in a tortilla.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with this Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with fresh flavors that brighten up your dinner table any day of the week. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find yourself reaching for cilantro pesto on everything once you experience its magic on these juicy chicken tenders!
Print
Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe offers a flavorful and healthy twist on classic chicken tenders. Marinated in a vibrant cilantro pesto made from fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and lime juice, these chicken tenders are baked to juicy perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, salads, or wraps and is perfect for those seeking gluten-free and low-carb meal options.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
Cilantro Pesto
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make the Cilantro Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, toasted pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic cloves, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth, vibrant pesto sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the pesto adhere better. Place the tenders in a large mixing bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the prepared cilantro pesto over the chicken tenders. Toss gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful pesto.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated chicken tenders in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to promote even cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and serve warm. Optionally, offer extra cilantro pesto on the side for dipping or drizzling over the tenders.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt or avocado for part of the olive oil to lighten the pesto and add creaminess.
- These tenders also cook well in an air fryer at 375°F for about 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with rice, fresh salads, or wrapped in tortillas for versatile meal options.
